Nigeria’s Dr. Akpem Terese Shadrach has emerged as one of the top three finalists in the World Food Prize Foundation (WFPF’s) inaugural Innovate for Impact Challenge.
Out of over 400 applicants spanning 65 countries, Dr. Shadrach distinguished himself with his groundbreaking solution, Vet Konect—a digital platform that connects livestock farmers and pet owners to veterinary professionals.
His innovation is transforming animal healthcare delivery, improving food security, and advancing agricultural development across Africa.
He will represent Nigeria and the African continent at the finals, scheduled to hold during the Borlaug Dialogue from October 21–23, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa.
Shadrach, who hails from Konshisha LGA of Benue State, is the first African to reach the finals of the prestigious agricultural global innovation challenge holding in Iowa, USA, next month.
He has trained over 40,000 young Nigerians in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and employability skills across the country.
With this feat, Nigeria has once again taken the global stage as Shadrach, a young innovator and veterinarian, emerged as one of the top three finalists.
Reacting to his qualification, Shadrach said: “The feat underscores my commitment to leadership and personal responsibility, which is one of my company’s core business principles.
“We are committed to supporting the growth and development of the Animal Health Sector in Nigeria and Africa through the use of technology, and this recognition by the World Food Prize Foundation is a testament to our efforts.
“We remain hopeful of a rewarding experience in Iowa when my team travels to compete in the finals to win and continue impacting Africa with the opportunities open to us,” he stated.
He urged the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and state governments to leverage the innovation young people across Nigeria are building to address the challenges of food security.
“We understand the vital role animal health plays in ensuring the long-term health and well-being of Nigerians. Through Vet Konect, we have offered every African an opportunity to connect to better opportunities for success in the livestock value chain.
“Hence, we are wholeheartedly committed to supporting Africa, the communities we call home, and making a meaningful and lasting impact,” he said.
Dr. Shadrach’s achievement is not just a personal triumph but a national milestone, as he is the only Nigerian and the sole African finalist. His story reflects the ingenuity, resilience, and excellence of Nigerian youth on the global stage.
